Virginia Commonwealth University Police Academy Recognizes Nine at 36th Basic Academy Graduation Exercises

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The Virginia Commonwealth University Police Academy awarded diplomas to nine men and women who completed training during the 36th Basic Academy.  

Senior Vice President for VCU Finance and Administration John Bennett and VCU Police Chief John Venuti presented diplomas to the graduates during a ceremony on Aug. 27 at the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts.

Venuti challenged the graduates to remain passionate about their chosen careers.

“Find your passion in policing. I have seen the unchangeable change with passion. I have seen what some said were impossible tasks accomplished with passion. Those who have a passion for what they do always believe that they can effect change,” Venuti said. “They live to serve. Those who are fueled by passion remain compassionate and sensitive to the needs of others.”

John Buckovich, Virginia’s deputy secretary of public safety, served as keynote speaker and told the graduates that careers in public safety are a calling.

“Every day is an opportunity to learn,” Buckovich said. “Every day is an opportunity to represent one of the most noble professions there is.”

Class members received training in criminal and traffic law, emergency vehicle operations, firearms, defensive tactics, ethics, investigations, victimology, anti-hate and terrorism, crisis intervention and community policing.

David Nigro represented the 36th basic academy as class president.

The graduating class includes representatives of the VCU and Virginia Union Police departments and a VCU intern.

The graduates are:

·    Ted K. Adams, Virginia Commonwealth University Police

·    Hermon P. Calhoun III, Virginia Commonwealth University Police

·    Jerrick RaShaun Carter Sr., Virginia Union University Police

·    Jason Nicholas Jefferson, Virginia Union University Police

·    David Nigro, Virginia Commonwealth University Police

·    Janine T. Rizzuti, Virginia Commonwealth University Police

·    Mikki L. Thomas, Virginia Union University Police

·    Allison E. Walker, Virginia Commonwealth University Police

·    Surafel Z. Wondimu, Virginia Commonwealth University Intern

Nigro received the class award for scholastic achievement. Adams received awards for best marksmanship, best emergency vehicle operation and leadership. Physical fitness awards were presented to Adams, Walker, Wondimu and Nigro. Thomas was recognized for most improved fitness.